When going through a divorce or separation, Family Mediation can assist you in resolving issues related to parenting, property, and finances. There are still misconceptions about what Family Mediation in the UK means and we’re here to hopefully help you with any confusion you might have. Read on to find out some essential tips about Family Mediation.
What is Family Mediation?
The goal of family mediation is not to reunite the family. On the contrary, family mediation attempts to assist you in figuring out how to live separately. If your relationship has ended, it might be difficult to come to an agreement on child custody arrangements or how to split your assets. If you decide on doing it all on your own, your decisions risk being overshadowed by pain and rage.
Thus, many find it beneficial to seek professional assistance in a form of an adequately trained Family Mediator. Keep in mind that mediators are not lawyers or solicitors. Therefore, get legitimate legal advice before settling to anything in mediation.
Prepare for your initial appointment
The first mediation meeting or MIAM (Mediation Information Assessment Meeting) does not require you to obtain all of your financial disclosure documents, bank statements, or assets, but you should take some time to prepare for it.
Carefully think about what you want to tell the mediator about your circumstances and what you want to get out of the process. Be open and honest with the mediator. In order to get the most out of their advice, clarify your goals and worries about the mediation process before settling the issue.
Consider the number of meetings you’ll need
Disputes relating to parenting or finances often need two to three mediation sessions, with the length of each session ranging from 90 minutes to two hours. Instead of dwelling on the past, make use of the mediation to move things forward and figure out what will happen next. Make sure to have all your legal documents with you when the mediation process starts.
For example, if you’re resolving a parenting issue, make sure to have properly completed form c100 with you. If you’re having trouble with the needed forms, you should always ask your mediator to help you with them. Lacking documentation can prolong the much-needed solution which is why it’s so important to have all the files on you at all times.
Finding a reputable mediator
If you have a solicitor, ask for a referral from them and they can set you up with some of the best mediators in your area. Another great idea is to ask around your family and friends since many people have gone through similar issues.
You may also use the Family Mediation Council’s search engine to locate a mediator in your area. Before you settle on a mediator, make sure to verify that they are registered and accredited by checking their name on the Family Mediation Council’s website. Don’t forget to skip this step even if you’ve found the mediator through a referral.
Try to stay calm
Many individuals find discussing post-separation or post-divorce plans with their spouse very unpleasant and stressful. It’s possible to safely work out your disagreements with the help of family mediation.
Domestic abuse and other issues that might complicate negotiations are among the many concerns that a professional family mediator will keep an eye out for. They are there to aid you in the entire process and make sure that you get the best deal possible. If your family mediator thinks that your ex-partner poses any potential risk to your general safety, they are trained to react promptly. The best you can do is to keep your head cool and trust that the mediator will properly do the job.
